But before players took the field, the team honored 22 soldiers who died while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

They began by reading the names of the soldiers.

Sunday, they will install a wall of honor to memorialize the fallen soldiers. Players said it will serve as a reminder to their sacrifice.

Fans said opening day in Hamilton is their favorite time of the year.

“It's about practice, practice, practice. But they practice fundamentals. Then they have batting practice. It’s a seven day a week job,” Charles Niles Jr. said.

This season marks the team’s 60th anniversary.

“I would rather be here to tell you the truth. I'm a Reds fan. Yeah, I like to see them play. But those guys play for money. These kids play for the joy. That's the big difference between the two,” Niles said.